Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Monasterevin
Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25

Plan produced by:
Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Contents
Acknowledgements & Contact Details ............................................................................................................ ii

Section 1: Introduction........................................................................................................................................... 1

    Process to Produce This Plan ......................................................................................................................... 2

    What is Biodiversity? .......................................................................................................................................... 2

Section 2: Biodiversity in Our Area ................................................................................................................ 3

    Main Biodiversity Sites .................................................................................................................................... 4

    Recent Progress ................................................................................................................................................... 5

    Wildlife of Kildare ................................................................................................................................................ 6

Section 3: A Call to Action ................................................................................................................................ 7

    Objective 1: Making Monasterevin biodiversity friendly ........................................................................ 8

    Objective 2: Raising awareness of local biodiversity & how to protect it ........................................ 12

    Objective 3: Collecting evidence to track change & measure success ............................................. 14

    Objective 4: Build local capacity to manage & record biodiversity ................................................... 15

    Mapping the Actions....................................................................................................................................... 16

Section 4: Resources .......................................................................................................................................... 17

    Links to useful online resources.................................................................................................................... 18

    Potential project funders................................................................................................................................. 19

    Useful contacts & sources ............................................................................................................................. 20

    Habitat Management Guidelines................................................................................................................ 22

    Planting for Biodiversity ................................................................................................................................. 24

    Invasive Alien Species .................................................................................................................................... 27

    Equipment Checklist....................................................................................................................................... 28

    Mood Board ...................................................................................................................................................... 30

Section 5: Results of Questionnaire ............................................................................................................. 34

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Acknowledgements & Contact Details
This action plan was produced as part of the Kildare Community Biodiversity Project
(14LDRKLD110901) which received grant aid from Kildare LCDC through the LEADER
programme. This programme is financed by the Government of Ireland under the Rural
Development Programme 2014-2020 and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural
Development.

The project represented a collaboration between the Rural Development Team in County
Kildare LEADER Partnership CLG and the Heritage Section in Kildare County Council. The
project launched in February 2020 and culminated in February 2021.

County Kildare LEADER Partnership CLG and Kildare County Council would like to thank
members of the community for their involvement and engagement with the process to
develop this action plan. We would also like to thank Monasterevin Tidy Towns for nominating
Monasterevin to take part in the project when expressions of interest were initially sought
and for their role in encouraging others in the community to get involved.

Finally, we would like to thank Brian Gaynor from Green Pine Consultants and consultant
ecologist and botanist, Dr. Fiona MacGowan, for their commitment and dedication to the
project and for sharing their expertise generously with the community. They liaised directly
with communities, delivered a dedicated programme of training sessions, produced a very
helpful series of newsletters, and brought this plan together.

We hope that the Biodiversity Action Plan will be beneficial in guiding local actions to promote
and protect biodiversity in the coming years.

Getting Involved:
If you wish to get involved with any of the actions outlined in this Plan, please contact either:
Monasterevin Tidy Towns
or
Kildare County Council Heritage Officer:

Phone: 045 980791
Fax: 045 980835
Email: heritageofficer@kildarecoco.ie
Website: http://www.kildare.ie/countycouncil/Heritage/index.html
If you would like to apply for LEADER funding towards implementing some actions in the
Plan, please email the LEADER team on info@countykildarelp.ie or call us on 045 895450.
You can also check out our website: https://www.countykildarelp.ie/

Photographs: Photos used in this Plan are courtesy of John Cullen, Anne Thomson, Helena
Kelly, Teresa Troy, Dr Fiona MacGowan, Suzanne Behan & Brian Gaynor.

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Section 1:
  Introduction
  Monasterevin is a town of almost 5,000 residents situated in the commuter belt in the west of County Kildare on the
  southern edge of the Bog of Allen. In recent years, it has experienced an increase in population, which is evident in
  the number of new housing estates on the edge of the town. It is a busy shopping town and historically a market town
  for the area. An area rich in history, culture and nature.

  As residents of Monasterevin we are fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful landscapes, the ‘Broad Barrow’ and its
  fertile banks skirting the town to the east, the Grand Canal with its historic towpaths, which in the near future will
  form part of the Blue Way, wide streets lined with mature trees, the mixed woodland of Moor Abbey Wood, such an
  important amenity for our community during this pandemic and the hinterland of bogland and mixed farmland. This
  landscape not only provides us with the amenity of many beautiful walkways and scenery but also a rich variety of
  different habitats for plant and animal life.

  However, many factors including our way of life has brought about climate change and biodiversity loss, serious issues
  which are impacting not only on our lives and our future but the life and future of the same plant and animal life which
  creates this beautiful landscape where we live. As individuals, neighbourhoods and as a community we need to take
  action.

  Our community has become richer in many ways, culturally, socially, with a broader knowledge base to draw upon.
  The Monasterevin Biodiversity Action Plan was developed for our community, an opportunity for our community to
  work together to change our future and the future of this beautiful town.

  This Biodiversity Action Plan aims to guide the local community and stakeholders in
  their efforts to protect and restore some of this natural heritage and maximise the
  benefits that nature can provide for the people of Monasterevin. The Plan is not
  intended to be a static document but rather to be regularly reviewed and updated
  over its life.

 A healthy natural world is crucial to our
way of life; it provides us with clean air &
   water, food, shelter, and much more!

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Process to Produce This Plan
At the end of 2019, Monasterevin Tidy Towns submitted an
Expression of Interest to be part of an upcoming initiative
entitled the Kildare Community Biodiversity Project. The project
was an initiative between County Kildare LEADER Partnership
and the Heritage Officer in Kildare County Council. It was funded
by the LEADER programme for 2014-2020. Green Pine
Consultants and Dr. Fiona MacGowan were contracted to deliver
the project. The team brought together qualifications in biology,
ecology, botany, and landscape architecture, as well as skills in
working with community groups.
The project kicked off in February 2020 with a launch night in Newbridge Town Hall. There were over 75
people in attendance from the ten communities that were selected to take part. The project involved recce
visits to assess biodiversity in each community, as well as a series of free public training workshops, and the
development of local Biodiversity Action Plans. Due to Covid 19 restrictions, the training sessions took place
in September and October via Zoom Meetings. These were open to all stakeholders and members of the
public with an interest in making their locality a better place for people and nature. During this process, the
views of all participants were sought during the workshops and through a questionnaire. Several community
groups attended the training sessions and their input was invaluable to the production of this Plan.

What is Biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of all living things including plants, animals, microbes, fungi
and people. It also includes the places where plants and animals live (known as habitats), the interactions
among living things (the web of life) and their environment (ecology).
Biodiversity is all around us, everywhere and in our everyday life. It forms complex systems that sustain life
on Earth. Each part of the system is important no matter how small or trivial it may seem to us. Think of it
as a puzzle; having a biodiverse system allows us to see the full puzzle but when we start to remove different
pieces, or species, the picture loses important parts.
We rely completely on biodiversity to provide us with the basic elements we need such as clean air and
water, food, fuel, building products and medicines. We also rely on it for the many free ‘services’ such as
nutrient recycling, pollination and water filtration etc. It is therefore vital that we make space for nature in
our towns, villages and countryside for us to continue living full and healthy lives.

“Biodiversity underpins the functioning of the ecosystems on which we depend for
food and fresh water, health and recreation, and protection from natural
disasters. Its loss also affects us culturally and spiritually. This may be more
difficult to quantify, but is nonetheless integral to our wellbeing”

                                                  Ban Ki-moon, Secretary General of the United Nations
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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Section 2:
 Biodiversity in
 Our Area
 Monasterevin is set within a landscape that is rich in biodiversity starting with
 the River Barrow running parallel to the Main Street while being crossed by a
 branch of the Grand Canal via an aqueduct. Not only is the town blessed with
 both natural and manmade aquatic habitats but it also features mixed
 woodland habitats in Moore Abbey Woods at the south. Then the further
 outskirts of the town reach out to the edges of the Bog of Allen with several
 cutover raised bogs within a few kilometres. The closest at Clonanny is only
 1km northwest of the Main Street. Monasterevin is known as the ‘Venice of
 Ireland’ due to its prominent waterways and impressive feats of engineering
 with an aqueduct, a rail bridge and a draw bridge all in the north of the town.
 Mature deciduous trees are also a prominent feature of the old part of the
 town along Drogheda Street and in the beautiful row of gardens along the river
 Barrow on Main Street. Such trees form a huge part of the character of
 Monasterevin and together with the River Barrow and the Grand Canal bring
 nature and biodiversity right into the everyday lives of Monasterevin residents
 and visitors. Please note that further details on your local conservation site
 details can be found at: www.npws.ie/protected-sites/

Monasterevin is known as the ‘Venice of
Ireland’ due to its prominent waterways
     and impressive feats of engineering
   including an aqueduct, rail bridge and
                            draw bridge.
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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Main Biodiversity Sites
There are numerous places of important biodiversity value in Monasterevin. The following are some of the
main ones in and around the town.

 Site of Biodiversity Interest
 River Barrow: Beautifully described by the celebrated poet and one-time
 Monasterevin resident Gerard Manley Hopkins as the ‘burling Barrow
 brown’, the Barrow is an integral part of the town. It is the second longest
 river in Ireland with its journey starting in the Slieve Bloom mountains of
 neighbouring Co. Laois. It is a large, broad river at Monasterevin but
 remarkably still is only at the early parts of its route all the way to the sea
 at Hook Head. The full length of the River Barrow together with its sister
 river the Nore form a Special Area of Conservation (SAC 002162) because
 this mighty river is home to a long list of species and habitats that are of international biodiversity value
 – including the Otter who are occasionally glimpsed from one of Monasterevin’s many bridges.
                     River Barrow Wildlife Garden: Thanks to the hard work of the local community a new
                     community garden space has been created along the River Barrow on Main Street. The
                     garden includes trees and a wildflower meadow running down to the river.
                     Ornamental pollinator friendly flowerbeds have been created towards Main Street
                     that will add visual interest and provide additional food for native pollinators.

 Grand Canal (pNHA 002104): The Barrow line branch of the
 Grand Canal that goes from Lowtown to Athy via Monasterevin.
 According to the NPWS site synopsis ‘The ecological value of the
 canal lies more in the diversity of species it supports along its
 linear habitats than in the presence of rare species. It crosses
 through agricultural land and therefore provides a refuge for
 species threatened by modern farming methods’. This
 encapsulates the value of the Grand Canal to Monasterevin
 bringing nature right into the heart of the town with its
 associated bird and plantlife as well as fish. In addition, the
 Barrow Way along the banks of the canal provides beautiful
 walks for all in Monasterevin.
 Moore Abbey Woods: Moore Abbey Wood is a mixed woodland, approximately 250 acres in size, and
 contains a variety of broadleaves and conifers. There are a variety of wildflowers, including spring
 bluebells, and many butterflies, including the pearl-bordered fritillary. It is also home to a healthy
 population of red squirrels. There are several trails in the wood which are open to the public.
                                St John’s Church of Ireland: The grounds of the church are a haven for
                                wildlife in the centre of the town. The headstones are home to many
                                species of lichen and moss and in recent years a section of the grass has
                                been managed as a wildflower meadow. There are also some fine
                                examples of yew trees on the grounds, a native tree which has long been
                                associated with graveyards in Ireland.

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Recent Progress
A lot of work has been carried out in recent years to enhance the town’s biodiversity including the
development of the community wildlife garden, management of selected grass areas as wildflower
meadows, and much more. In autumn 2020, members of the local community took part in the Kildare
Community Biodiversity Project. It involved three biodiversity training sessions (all online) and led to
the production of this Action Plan. In the short timespan between the training and the production of
this Plan the local community has already completed / started delivering a number of the actions:

•    Harvesting of willow from the children play park.
•    Planting of 20 raspberries canes gifted to us from a volunteer who was removing them from
     their garden.
•    Upgrading work practice in the park and gardens, longer time span between grass cutting, none
     use of chemicals where possible, compost bin and water butt
•    Worked with St. Pauls new LCA class and TY plus some community volunteers in planting 1200
     native bluebells and 240 alliums, 100 snowdrops, daffodils in the areas of Riverside park, Togher
     Road, Mill Race and Triangle on the Athy road.
•    Planting of hedge in Riverside park.
•    Grass verge on Canal road not cut for the season -pollinator space.
•    Connected with some housing estates to discuss the Towns Biodiversity plan and to support
     them in their action plans.
•    Connected with Coillte, local councillors and Kildare County Council to support a safe walking
     link from the town to Moore Abbey Woods.

    Several areas of grassland in the town are now being managed as
    wildflower meadow

    In autumn 2020, over 1,200 spring bulbs were planted on grass
    verges in the town

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Wildlife of Kildare
Badger

Robin

                                                 Great Spotted
                                                 Woodpecker

                                      Red
                                      Squirrel

Rabbit      A collection of photos courtesy of
              Kildare wildlife photographer
                      Suzanne Behan

                                      Grey                       Red Fox
                                      Wagtail

Mute Swan                                                        Kingfisher

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Biodiversity Action Plan 2021-25 - Monasterevin - Kildare.ie
Section 3: A
Call to
Action
This is a shared plan of action for the town to build on the recent progress made to improve areas for
biodiversity and to start developing other opportunities to maximise the town’s full biodiversity potential.
In doing so this will hopefully engage new people and groups in managing their local green space with
biodiversity in mind. The plan has four main objectives, each with several targets and actions:
1. Objective 1: Making Monasterevin wildlife friendly
2. Objective 2: Raising awareness of local wildlife and how to protect it.
3. Objective 3: Collecting evidence to track change and measure success.
4. Objective 4: Build local capacity to manage and record biodiversity.

 Did you know: Irish pollinators are estimated to contribute €59
            million annually to the Irish economy!
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Objective 1: Making Monasterevin
biodiversity friendly
All types of land can be used to increase the levels of biodiversity in the town including built features and
green spaces. Each landowner whether public or private can also play their part in enhancing their lands for
biodiversity.

 Target 1.1 Make the town’s public spaces more biodiversity friendly
 No.     Action                                                                          Who                 When
 1.1.1   Carry out the following biodiversity habitat enhancement works within           Representative of   Continuously
         the ‘Riverside Park’:                                                           Monasterevin
              A. Manage selected areas of the central lawn spaces as a spring            Tidy Towns (Rep.
                   bulb and shortcut wildflower meadow. The fringes along the            MTT) with
                   footpath should be mown regularly to maintain a sharp and tidy        support from
                   appearance.                                                           Kildare County
              B. Maintain the wildflower meadows along the roadside of the park          Council (KCC)
                   by cutting and lifting each year. Plan this at the beginning of the
                   year. This could be managed as part of an overall contract for
                   meadow management across the town.
              C. Renew existing raised shrub beds over the course of the 5-year
                   plan by replacing some of the larger shrubs with more pollinator
                   friendly perennial wildflowers. These will also add much more
                   visual interest throughout the year. One or more of these beds
                   could be managed as a herb garden.
              D. Manage the stand of woodland on the northern end of the park                                2021
                   as a community forest garden. Native Bluebell 1400 planted
              E. Create a pollinator friendly herbaceous border along the stream                             2022
                   banks.
              F. Develop the bank on the southern end of the park to an                                      2022
                   amphitheatre with occasional specimen trees.
              G. Upgrade the paths within the park to allow access for all to enjoy                          2021
                   the park’s biodiversity features.
              H. Install a permanent barrier on the western side (riverside) of the                          2024
                   car park. A timber knee rail or similar approved. Use the fence to
                   incorporate interpretation of different aspects of the park’s
                   biodiversity.
 1.1.2   Develop a natural woodland play trail on the grass bank on the northern         Rep. MTT to         2022
         side of the playground. This would involve a natural trail of boulders and      discuss with KCC
         steps snaking through native woodland planting. Other natural art
         features and sensory play features can be built into the trail.
 1.1.3   Thin out some of the Willow on the bank beside the river to use for             Rep. MTT to         2021
         natural play and garden supports.                                               discuss with KCC
 1.1.4   Maintain the wildflower verge on Harbour View (at the junction with             Rep. MTT to         2021
         West End) by cutting and lifting it each year. Plan this at the beginning of    discuss with KCC
         the year. This could be managed as part of an overall contract for
         meadow management across the town. Augment with native wildflower
         seed, particularly Yellow Rattle after it is cut and lifted.

         Explore opportunities to manage other roadside verges around the town
         and on approach roads as wildflower rich verges.
 1.1.5   Carry out the following biodiversity habitat enhancement works within           Rep. MTT to         2021
         the community wildlife garden:                                                  discuss with KCC
              A. Maintain the existing wildflower meadow by cutting and lifting
                  each year. Plan this at the beginning of the year. This could be
                                                                                                                            8
Target 1.1 Make the town’s public spaces more biodiversity friendly
No.     Action                                                                        Who                When
                 managed as part of an overall contract for meadow management
                 across the town.
            B. Infill planting in the flower beds with more pollinator friendly
                 perennials and bulbs e.g. alliums.
1.1.6   Explore the opportunity to plant a community orchard including both fruit
        and nut plant species. This should act as the site for the local heritage
        orchard conservation project (see Action 1.4.2)
1.1.7   Explore the opportunity to carry out the following biodiversity habitat       Rep. MTT will      2021
        enhancement works on the green beside Monasterevin AFC & St Evin’s            discuss with
        Park:                                                                         soccer club
            • Discuss planting climbers on the concrete block wall along the
                 path from Togher Road entrance to soccer pitch. Species mix can
                 include native Ivy (Hedera helix), Honeysuckle and Pyracantha.
                 Plants to be planted @ 3/m.
            • Manage the part of the main grassland as wildflower meadow.
            • Plant stands of trees, both native and traditional Irish fruit trees,
                 on selected parts of the main grassland.
1.1.8   Discuss with Cemetery committee about the following biodiversity              Rep. MTT to meet   2021
        habitat enhancement works that could be carried out at Monasterevin           Committee
        Cemetery:
            A. Plant climbers on the concrete block wall on the town side
                 (northern boundary). Species mix can include native Ivy (Hedera
                 helix), Honeysuckle and Pyracantha. Plants to be planted @ 3/m.
            B. Manage sections of the lawn space around the base of trees as a
                 bulb and short cut wildflower meadow. Augment the Daffodil
                 planting with other pollinator friendly bulbs (Snowdrops,
                 Crocuses, Bluebells, Wood anemones).
            C. Harvest acorns from local Oak trees and grow as saplings to be
                 planted on the lawn area and elsewhere connect with St. Paul’s
                 School. These will act as the next generation of trees.
            D. Manage the grass area at the southern side of the cemetery as
                 wildflower meadow by cutting and lifting the grass at the end of
                 the growing season. Augment with native wildflower seed
                 including Yellow Rattle. Plant a native hedgerow against the
                 boundary wall at this area by use of the free trees provided.
1.1.9   Discuss with residence committee about managing the grass verge on the        MTT                2021
        Dublin Road in front of Hopkin’s Haven as a bulb and shortcut wildflower
        meadow. Add pollinator friendly bulbs into the verge such as Snowdrops,
        Crocus spp. and Alliums.

Target 1.2 Make the town’s private lands more biodiversity friendly
No.     Action                                                                        Who                When
1.2.1   Run a ‘Free Garden Tree Giveaway’ on a Saturday morning in Feb/March.         For discussion     2022
        Tree mix (whips only) to include: Rowan, Birch, Hazel and Wild Cherry.
1.2.2   Maintain the sections of the wildflower meadow in the Church of Ireland       Rep. MTT           2021-25
        grounds as wildflower meadow by cutting and lifting in Aug-Sept (and
        ideally again in March-April).

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Target 1.2 Make the town’s private lands more biodiversity friendly
No.     Action                                                                          Who                  When
1.2.3   Explore the opportunity to enhance the community amenities using                MTT to connect       2021
        natural features for resident in St Evin’s Park using the western side of the   with Residents
        main green space. This could include natural trails with tree planting,         Association
        wildflower meadow, natural play features (mounds, boulders, tree logs,
        etc.). All resident associations will be assisted in these actions.
1.2.4   Explore the opportunity to carry out the following habitat and visual           Rep MTT -            2021-22
        enhancement works in residential estates in the town:                           Discuss with
             A. Plant native hedgerows or climbers against internal boundary            residential
                   concrete walls and along the front boundaries of residential         committees
                   estates in the town.
             B. Manage sections of residential green spaces as wildflower
                   meadows
             C. Create pollinator friendly planting beds by renovating existing
                   shrub / flower beds or creating new ones at suitable locations in
                   estates. The management of these should be taken on by the
                   residents.
             D. Plant copses of trees on residential green spaces and manage
                   the grass underneath as bumblebee nesting habitat (left uncut).
                   Plant bulbs and wildflowers into these areas to add colour and
                   increase the biodiversity value.
             E. Install bird and bat boxes at suitable locations.

        Target 1-2 residential estates each year of the Action Plan to work with
        (all actions should be agreed with the residents). This could include the
        front boundary of the Old Millrace estate or the internal boundary walls
        in Abbeygate.
1.2.5   Explore the opportunity to plant a beech hedge hazel and wild rose              MTT discuss with     2021-2023
        around the perimeter of the grounds in Monasterevin AFC.                        soccer club
1.2.6   Engage with the Muiríosa Foundation and the Sisters of Charity of Jesus &       Rep. MTT to          2021
        Mary Services about developing a landscape masterplan for their grounds         discuss with KCC
        that would maximise social, health and ecological benefits.
1.2.7   Explore the opportunity to install large raised beds or containers in front     To check with        2021
        of the old Finlay’s Garage. Plant with pollinator friendly plant mixes and      Earley’s estate
        small native tree species (if the planters are large enough to support          agent,
        them).                                                                          Portarlington
1.2.8   Explore the opportunity to maximise biodiversity potential of                   MTT discuss with     2021-2022
        Monasterevin GFC Fr Prendergast Memorial Park by (actions to be agreed          Monasterevin
        with the GAA):                                                                  GAA
              A. Planting climbers along the concrete panel walls on the entrance
                  road.
              B. Planting a beech hedge or climbers along the boundary with
                  Woodview estate.
              C. Planting pollinator friendly climbers at intervals along the
                  boundary wall with Brocan Wood (these should not interfere
                  with the use of the wall for advertising.
              D. Installing Swift boxes and a caller on the club house.
1.2.9   Explore the opportunity to maximise biodiversity potential of Ballykelly        MTT with local       2021
        GFC Stephen O’Rourke Memorial Park by (actions to be agreed with the            wildlife charities
        GAA):
              A. Planting native trees on unused corners of the grounds.
              B. Installing Swift boxes and a caller on the club house.

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Target 1.3 Make the town’s surrounding lands more biodiversity friendly
No.     Action                                                                        Who                 When
1.3.1   Carry out a hedgerow resilience project by augmenting existing                Rep. MTT            2021-2022
        hedgerows in the surrounding landscape with new trees such as Oak,
        Wild Cherry, etc. This will future proof hedgerows against the potential
        impacts of Ash Dieback.
1.3.2   Explore with Coillte the possibility of carrying out the following habitat    Rep MTT to          2021
        and landscape enhancement works at Moore Abbey Woods:                         engage with
             A. Manage the grass space beside the car park as a wildflower            Coillte
                 meadow.
             B. Clear back selected areas of vegetation on the northern side to
                 restore views to Moore Abbey.
             C. Manage the section of clear fell woodland on the southern end
                 as open biodiversity habitat to conserve existing populations of
                 invertebrates and wildflowers.
1.3.3   Engage with Transport Infrastructure Ireland about the management of          Rep MTT to          2021
        the motorway embankment adjacent to Moore Abbey Woods to maintain             engage with the
        the species rich sward. It requires control of scrub encroachment and         Climate Action
        cutting and lifting of the grass each year in August-September.               Officer
1.3.4   Explore the opportunities for managing / maintaining the habitat at the       Rep MTT             2021-2025
        southwestern boundaries of the forest at Clonegath as a wildlife corridor.
        Fifteen species of butterflies have been recorded here. Engage with the
        neighbouring landowners and Coillte.

Target 1.4 Deliver species-specific conservation projects
No.     Action                                                                        Who                 When
1.4.1   Participate in local Swift conservation efforts such as Wild Kildare’s        Local wildlife      2023
        project by:                                                                   charities such as
             ● Installing boxes and callers on suitable locations in the town.        Wild Kildare
             ● Lobby for Swift bricks to be included in future developments e.g.,
                 the new primary school.
             ● Carry out surveys of Swift population numbers locally and the
                 uptake of installed nesting boxes / bricks (see Action 3.1.1).
             ● Organise / facilitate a Swift talk
1.4.2   Conserve local heritage fruit and nut trees by carrying out a survey of the   MTT                 2021-2025
        town (see Action 3.1.10) and taking appropriate conservation actions for
        them. This should include propagating these trees and planting at
        selected locations throughout the town (see Action 1.1.6).
1.4.3   Discuss with Coillte if they could carry out a native bluebell conservation   Rep MTT to          2021
        project in Moore Abbey Woods. This should involve a survey of bluebell        engage with
        species (see Action 3.1.7), implementing control measures for the non-        Coillte
        native Spanish bluebells and hybrids, and awareness raising program
        amongst local people.
1.4.4   Carry out a red squirrel conservation project. This should involve:           Rep MTT to          2021
             ● A survey of local red and grey squirrel population numbers (see        engage with
                 Action 3.1.5).                                                       Coillte
             ● The development of a red squirrel feeding station and
                 information point in Moore Abbey Woods.
             ● Mapping, protecting and restoring ecological corridors for red
                 squirrels across the town and in the surrounding landscape. This
                 should include exploring the potential for an ecological bridge
                 across the M7 connecting the different areas of forestry.

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Objective 2: Raising awareness of local
biodiversity & how to protect it
It is important to raise awareness so that the public, community & residential groups, and businesses know
how to help our wildlife.

 Target 2.1 Increase the number of people within the community who are aware of their
 local biodiversity and who understand the need to conserve it
 No.     Action                                                                             Who       When
 2.1.1   Install interpretation posts at selected locations on the Grand Canal walk.                  2025
         These should cover the history of the canal and the wildlife found on it.
 2.1.2   Install interpretation posts at selected locations within Moore Abbey Woods.                 2025
         These should cover the heritage of the area including biodiversity.
 2.1.3   Explore the potential for a waymarked looped walk around the town                            2025
         connecting various sites of natural, built and cultural heritage such as the
         Grand Canal, River Barrow, town centre, local forests etc. Any trail should
         include interpretation of local biodiversity.
 2.1.4   Run a minimum of 2 wildlife related events (e.g. walks, talks, workshops)          MTT       2021-2025
         each year. This should use the results of the questionnaire in the back of this
         Plan as a guide for topics of interest and how to deliver them during Covid
         19. They should also include:
              ● Wildlife of Moore Abbey Wood talk and walk covering red squirrels,
                    bluebells, pine martens, etc.
              ● Wildlife of the River Barrow
              ● Wildlife of the Grand Canal

         These can be delivered as Monasterevin only events or in partnership with
         other neighbouring communities where appropriate.
 2.1.5   Use any vacant shop fronts on Main Street to display / interpret the local                   2024
         natural, built and cultural heritage of Monasterevin. This should include
         repainting the wildflower murals on the front of the vacant garage (the old
         Finlays Garage).
 2.1.6   Use local social media to raise awareness of local biodiversity and
         conservation issues.
 2.1.7   Run a Willow-work community workshop using the Willow thinning from the            Rep MTT   2023
         bank between the river and the playground.
 2.1.8   Work with the owners of the riverside gardens on Main Street to raise
         awareness of biodiversity-friendly gardening perhaps by passing on a copy of
         the Gardener’s version of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan available at
         www.pollinators.ie/resources
 2.1.9   Explore the potential to paint a biodiversity-awareness mural on the wall at
         entrance to The Pastures estate

 Target 2.2 Support education opportunities in schools at all levels
 No.     Action                                                                             Who       When
 2.2.1   Ensure the local schools have copies of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan guides     MTT       2021
         for schools and the Junior All-Ireland Pollinator Plan
         (www.pollinators.ie/resources).
 2.2.2   Support the local schools with wildlife events / activities. Where possible this             2023
         should be using the different areas of habitat on the campus. This can be a
         wildlife walk, talk, or workshop.

                                                                                                                  12
Target 2.2 Support education opportunities in schools at all levels
No.     Action                                                                             Who   When
2.2.3   Install signage to maximise outdoor learning about the different areas of                2023
        biodiversity habitat on the school grounds. These can be created by the
        school pupils as part of art class activities.

Target 2.3 Provide clear information to different sectors within the community on how
they can take actions to enhance their spaces for biodiversity
No.     Action                                                                             Who    When
2.3.1   Run a half day weed control workshop to raise awareness of the harmful
        effects of herbicide use on human health and for biodiversity to different
        landowners around the town. This workshop should also cover alternative
        weed control solutions where weed control is necessary and encourage a
        change of mindset in other situations where ‘weeds’ could be allowed to
        grow.

        Consider organising this event in partnership with other local communities.
2.3.2   Participate in, and if necessary help organise, a series of county wide farm
        talks / walks (min. of 2 per year) that will positively enhance biodiversity in
        the landscape e.g. utilizing farm green infrastructure for the farm business,
        farm woodland grants, etc. Communicate the details of each event with the
        local farming community.
2.3.3   Engage with management and the residents of the Direct Provision Centre at
        the Hazel Hotel about establishing a program for voluntary conservation
        activities for residents. This program could utilise the outdoor spaces for this
        purpose. Suggested activities could include a wildflower or tree growing
        program using seed sourced locally, which can then be used as part of
        volunteer planting days in the community.
2.3.4   Ensure the different sectors within the community have copies of the
        relevant All-Ireland Pollinator Plan resource guides e.g. sporting
        organisations, faith communities, etc.
2.3.5   Post links to the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan guides on local social media each
        year.
2.3.6   Implement a policy of no Invasive plant species in new planting schemes in
        the town. For example- this should include no Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)
        planting in any new schemes.
2.3.7   Engage with Kildare County Council on any new developments in the town
        that they should incorporate best practice green infrastructure design
        principles (e.g. bioswales) and biodiversity features (e.g. Swift bricks, see
        Action 1.4.1).

        This should ideally be done at the planning stage. Where plans have
        developed beyond planning, engage with the developers about the benefits
        that green infrastructure design can deliver for them.
2.3.8   Engage with Waterways Ireland about management practices along the
        Grand Canal including the use of herbicide.

                                                                                                         13
Objective 3: Collecting evidence to
track change & measure success
To ensure that our actions are making a difference we need to gather a baseline of data on our wildlife and
then measure our success or lack thereof against this. This data can be gathered through regular surveys and
Citizen Science efforts. This plan sets out the following targets to achieve this:

 Target 3.1 Build a baseline of data on local biodiversity and track changes
 No.      Action                                                                       Who                      When
 3.1.1    Monitor the Swift population numbers in the town annually and the            MTT and local wildlife   2021-2025
          uptake of newly installed Swift boxes (see Action 1.4.1).                    charities such as Wild
                                                                                       Kildare
 3.1.2    Facilitate Wild Kildare’s ‘Moth Atlas’ for the county
 3.1.3    Develop at least 2 bumblebee transects in the town and submit records
          to the NBDC
 3.1.4    Develop at least 2 butterfly transects in the town and submit records to
          the NBDC
 3.1.5    Monitor squirrel (red and grey) population numbers (see Action 1.4.4).
 3.1.6    Carry out an otter survey of the River Barrow and Grand Canal.
 3.1.7    Carry out a survey of bluebells in Moore Abbey Wood (see Action 1.4.3).
 3.1.8    Record all biodiversity records onto the National Biodiversity Data
          Centre. Encourage other members of the community to do likewise.
 3.1.9    Record and map all biodiversity actions delivered at:
          https://pollinators.biodiversityireland.ie/
 3.1.10   Carry out a survey of heritage varieties of fruit and nut trees and bushes
          in the town (see Action 1.4.2).

 Target 3.2 Measure progress of this Plan on a regular basis
 No.      Action                                                                       Who                      When
 3.2.1    Set up a sub-committee that will be responsible for carrying out an                                   2021
          annual review and steering the delivery of this BAP. This should include
          representatives of different sectors within the community.
 3.2.2    The sub-committee shall carry out an annual review of the Action Plan.                                2021, 2022 &
                                                                                                                2024
 3.2.3    Carry out a more detailed mid-term review of the Action Plan.                                         2023
 3.2.4    Carry out a full detailed review of the Action Plan in the final year.                                Summer 2025
 3.2.5    Plan for the updating / renewing of a subsequent 5-year plan to run                                   2025
          from 2026-2030.

                                                                                                                               14
Objective 4: Build local capacity to
manage & record biodiversity
The following targets and actions aim to ensure that we have the resources and capacity to carry out the
actions identified in Objectives 1-3.

 Target 4.1 Build the capacity within the community to manage and record biodiversity
 No.     Action                                                                          Who       When
 4.1.1   Identify all wildlife groups active in Monasterevin and make contact and        MTT       2021-2025
         offer help / partner on local projects.
 4.1.2   Identify sources (sites) of native wildflowers (this should include Yellow
         Rattle) as places for community seed collections - this can include other
         donor sources in the county
 4.1.3   Create an email list of local volunteers who can be called upon for
         practical conservation volunteering events throughout the year such as
         management of wildflower meadows, invasive species removal, tree
         planting, etc.
 4.1.4   Hold an event to communicate this BAP to the local community
 4.1.5   Participate in a meeting of all 10 Kildare 2020 BAP applicants to discuss                 2021
         opportunities for collaboration to deliver selected projects outlined in this
         Plan.

 Target 4.2 Build up local resources of materials and equipment to manage and record
 biodiversity
 No.     Action                                                                          Who       When
 4.2.1   Explore options for acquiring a polytunnel, or part of, for community use.
         This will be used to grow all the town's flowers and plants for use in new                2021
         community planting schemes. This will create the opportunity to raise
         funds by selling native plants and pollinator friendly plants.
 4.2.2   Source meadow maintenance equipment for community use. Options
         available are to 1) purchase equipment, potentially in partnership with
         other local towns and villages; and 2) work with the private sector to
         build up their capacity for managing meadows (hire companies and / or
         local landscape contractors).

         If working with other local groups then an annual schedule for its use,
         maintenance /servicing plans, insurance & other costs should be agreed in
         advance.
 4.2.3   Build up a stock of biodiversity educational resources. Liaise with the local   Rep MTT   2021
         library.
 4.2.4   Build up a stock of biodiversity recording equipment such as bat                MTT       2021-2025
         detectors, moth traps, etc.

                                                                                                               15
Mapping the Actions

                      16
Section 4: Resources
It is not necessary to re-invent the wheel in order to deliver this plan. There are numerous people,
organisations, publications and online resources available to achieve the best possible outcomes. Some of
these are outlined in this section, although this is not intended to be an exhaustive list. It will also be
important that as new information becomes available that this should be considered and actions delivered
or adjusted accordingly.

    Did you know: Of the 62,000 townland names in Ireland,
13,000 have reference to trees and 1,600 have some derivation
 of ‘dair’ the Irish word for oak. For example, Cill Dara (Kildare)
                meaning ‘Church of the Oak’ Kildare.

                                                                             This leaf vacuum can be used to
                                                                             harvest native wildflower seed from
                                                                             local meadows which can then be
                                                                             used to increase diversity in new
                                                                             community meadows.

                                                                                                          17
Links to useful online resources
The following is a list of useful links to guides on a range of common biodiversity subjects.
 Subject                   Link(s)
 Bats                      • https://www.batconservationireland.org/
                           • https://kildarebatgroup.wordpress.com/
 Birdwatching              • http://www.birdwatchkildare.com/?page_id=23
                           • https://birdwatchireland.ie/irelands-birds-birdwatch-ireland/
                           • www.irishbirding.com
 Children’s Biodiversity   • https://birdwatchireland.ie/our-work/fun-learning/for-kids/
 Activities                • https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2020/03/kids-nature-activities-self-isolation/
                           • https://www.rspb.org.uk/fun-and-learning/
 General Biodiversity      • https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/
 Issues                    • www.npws.ie
 Habitat Boxes             • https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Pollinator-How-to-Guide-
                               1-ALT_FINAL.pdf
                           • https://birdwatchireland.ie/app/uploads/2019/09/Nestboxes-factsheet.pdf
                           • https://www.batconservationireland.org/wp-
                               content/uploads/2015/05/BCIrelandGuidelines_BatBoxes.pdf
 Hedgerows                 • https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Pollinator-How-to-Guide-
                               3-FINAL-1.pdf
                           • https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/content/files/conserving_hedgerows_2mb.pdf
                           • https://63273-649646-raikfcquaxqncofqfm.stackpathdns.com/wp-
                               content/uploads/2019/04/Hedgerow-CasestudyASPaul21-Send-for-New-Website.pdf
                           • https://mosart.ie/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Irish-Hedgerows-Networks-for-Nature.pdf
                           • www.hedgelaying.ie
 Interpretative Signage    • https://www.nature.scot/sites/default/files/2019-11/Guidance%20-
                               %20Natural%20heritage%20interpretation_1.pdf
                           • https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/content/files/bored_of_boards_1mb.pdf
                           • https://pollinators.ie/resources/signage-templates/
 Invasive Alien Species    • https://invasivespeciesireland.com/
                           • https://www.fisheriesireland.ie/Invasive-Species/invasive-species.html
 Local Biodiversity        • https://www.facebook.com/Wild-Kildare-1437313092971392/
 News                      • http://www.birdwatchkildare.com/
                           • https://kildarebatgroup.wordpress.com/
                           • http://www.kildare.ie/CountyCouncil/Heritage/Biodiversity/
 Nature Trails             • http://www.walkingroutes.ie/WalkingTrails/Kildare
 Orchards                  • http://www.irishseedsavers.ie/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/CreatingAnOrchard.pdf
                           • https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_da
                               ta/file/11466/1973262.pdf
                           • http://www.wetlandsystems.ie/goephow.html
                           • https://www.theorchardproject.org.uk/
 Peatlands                 • www.ipcc.ie
                           • www.bordnamona.ie/transform/biodiversity
                           • www.abbeyleixbog.ie
 Pollinator Friendly       • https://pollinators.ie/resources/
 Planting Schemes          • https://pollinators.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Planting-Code-2018-WEB.pdf
                           • www.rhs.org.uk
 Pollinators               • https://pollinators.ie/
 Recording Biodiversity    • https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/record-biodiversity/
 Reducing Herbicide        • https://greensideup.ie/16-natural-alternatives-to-herbicide-why-you-should-use-them/
 Use
 Schools & Biodiversity    •   https://greenschoolsireland.org/biodiveristy/
                           •   https://pollinators.ie/schools/
                           •   http://www.heritageinschools.ie/teachers-resources/strand/living-things-science/p3?q=&c=
                                                                                                                          18
Subject                  Link(s)
                          • https://www.eckilkenny.ie/images/Biodiversity_Plan_for_Schools.pdf
                          • http://www.heartoftheglens.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Teachers-Outdoor-
                              Learning-Resource.pdf
                          • http://www.ipcc.ie/discover-and-learn/resources/
 Swifts                   • https://birdwatchireland.ie/our-work/surveys-research/research-surveys/swift-surveys/
                          • www.swiftconservation.ie/
 Tree Identification &    • https://www.treecouncil.ie/nativeirishtrees
 Selection                • https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-qemRFHRDRSVnh3bmxGOEVaMHc/edit
                          • http://www.clarecoco.ie/services/planning/publications/tree-design-guide-for-towns-and-
                              villages-in-co-clare-2017-28115.pdf
 Wildflower Meadows       • https://pollinators.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/How-to-guide-Wildflower-
                              Meadows-2018-WEB.pdf
 Wildflowers              • http://www.wildflowersofireland.net/index.php
                          • www.bsbi.org
 Wildlife Ponds           • https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/actions/how-build-pond
                          • https://invasivespeciesireland.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/AQUATICS_BOOK5.pdf
 Woodland                 • http://www.woodlandsofireland.com/sites/default/files/Management%20Guidelines%20for%
                              20Ireland%27s%20Native%20Woodlands%202017.pdf
                          • https://www.forestryfocus.ie/social-environmental-aspects/biodiversity-and-nature-
                              conservation/biodiversity-in-forests/conservation-and-restoration/
                          • http://www.woodlandsofireland.com/sites/default/files/Silvicultural%20Guidelines%20for%20
                              Native%20Trees.pdf
                          • https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-advice/how-manage-woodland-wildlife

Potential project funders
The following table outlines some of the potential sources of funding to help deliver the actions outlined in
this Plan. It is also worth remembering other traditional forms of fundraising such as working with local
businesses, bucket collections, table quizzes, etc.
 Fund / Funding Body              Description
 LEADER Programme, County         To discuss potential project ideas and the availability of funding, contact the County
 Kildare LEADER Partnership CLG   Kildare LEADER Partnership offices at (045) 895 450 or email info@countykildarelp.ie.
                                  Website: www.countykildarelp.ie/
 Kildare County Council           For additional information in relation to funding for biodiversity and heritage projects,
                                  contact the Heritage Officer - Tel. 045 980791 or email heritageofficer@kildarecoco.ie
 Community Environment Action     Formerly known as LA21, this fund covers small community environmental projects.
 Fund – Kildare County Council
 Community Foundation for         The Community Foundation for Ireland has funded biodiversity surveys and action plans
 Ireland                          under their Environment and Nature programme.
                                  https://www.communityfoundation.ie/insights/news/environment-and-nature-fund-2019
 Heritage Council                 The Heritage Council supports a wide range of heritage projects throughout the country
                                  through our annual grants programme.
                                  https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/funding
 Waters & Communities             Their aim is to support communities and stakeholders in the delivery of local water quality
                                  projects and initiatives and have an annual grant package available. Contact your local
                                  officer to discuss potential projects by searching:
                                  http://watersandcommunities.ie/community-water-officers/
 Trees on the Land                This charity aims to increase the amount of native Irish trees across Ireland.
                                  https://www.treesontheland.com/
 NeighbourWood Scheme             This Forestry Service grant supports the creation and enhancement of new native
                                  community woodland schemes over 1ha in size (up to 12ha size) including the
                                  improvements to woodland facilities such as trail infrastructure.
                                  https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/media/migration/forestry/grantandpremiumschemes/201
                                  5/NeighbourWoodScheme240717.pdf

                                                                                                                              19
Useful contacts & sources
To help deliver the actions it will be important to work with a range of local and national stakeholder groups.
The following outlines some of these. It is worth remembering that there may also be local individuals in
your community who have particular interests and skillsets worth tapping into to deliver the actions.
Remember that skills other than ecological skills can be an important asset when delivering certain actions.
 Organisation / Group     Area of Expertise                                  Contact Details
 Kildare County Council   The local Heritage Officer is available to         Tel. 045 980791 or email
                          discuss and provide information on                 heritageofficer@kildarecoco.ie
                          biodiversity and heritage related matters and
                          projects.
 Kildare Public           Public Participation Networks (PPNs) act as an     Telephone: 045 980700
 Participation Network    independent structure to facilitate public         Email: admin@kildareppn.ie
                          participation in policy and decision making        Website: https://www.kildareppn.ie/
                          with the local authorities.

                          Community and voluntary, social inclusion,
                          and environmental groups are encouraged to
                          join Kildare PPN.
 County Kildare           If your idea is eligible in principle for LEADER   Telephone: (045) 895 450. Email
 LEADER Partnership       funding, a Project Development Officer will        info@countykildarelp.ie. Website:
 CLG                      work with you to develop specifications of         www.countykildarelp.ie/
                          your project, help you with procurement, and
                          assist in bring forward an application for
                          funding. Funding is available in the following
                          categories: capital, training, marketing, and
                          analysis and development
 Wild Kildare             Local volunteer environmental organisation.        https://www.facebook.com/Wild-Kildare-
                                                                             1437313092971392/
 Irish Wildlife Trust     National environmental charity covering all        https://iwt.ie/
                          aspects of biodiversity.
 BirdWatch Ireland        For information on Ireland’s birds.                https://birdwatchireland.ie/
 Kildare
 National Parks and       Responsible for managing the Irish State's         https://www.npws.ie/
 Wildlife Service         nature conservation responsibilities.
 All-Ireland Pollinator   National Plan with the aim of creating             https://pollinators.ie/
 Plan                     an Ireland where pollinators can survive &
                          thrive.
 National Biodiversity    National centre for the collection, collation,     https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/
 Data Centre              management, analysis and dissemination of
                          data on Ireland’s biological diversity.
 Vincent Wildlife Trust   National environmental charity with the aim        https://www.vincentwildlife.ie/
                          of conserving and research into selected Irish
                          mammals.
 Botanical Society of     National organisation that promotes the            https://bsbi.org/ireland
 Britain & Ireland        study, understanding and enjoyment of British
                          and Irish botany.
 The Local Authority      A shared service working with Local                http://watersandcommunities.ie/
 Waters Programme         Authorities and State agencies to meet
 (Waters &                obligations under the EU Water Framework
 Communities)             Directive for the development and
                          implementation of River Basin Management
                          Plans in Ireland.
 Monasterevin Tidy        Local Tidy Towns group.                            https://www.facebook.com/MonasterevinTT/
 Towns
                                                                                                                      20
Bat Conservation       An all-Ireland charity that promotes            https://www.batconservationireland.org/
Ireland                the conservation of bats and their habitats.
Kildare Bat Group      Members of Bat Conservation Ireland with a      https://kildarebatgroup.wordpress.com/
                       particular interest in Kildare bats.
Kildare Animal         A local non-profit organisation dedicated to    https://animalfoundation.ie/
Foundation             the welfare of cats, dogs and small animals.
Irish Peatland         A national charitable organisation with the     http://www.ipcc.ie/
Conservation Council   aim of conserving and protecting a
                       representative sample of Irish bogs, and to
                       campaign on bog-related issues.
Kildare Community 4    This is a network of groups and individuals     https://www.facebook.com/KildareC4CA/
Climate Action         who are working together for climate action
                       and community resilience in Kildare. The
                       network originated as a result of the LEADER-
                       funded “Communities 4 Climate Action”
                       training programme that was held in 2019.

                                                        The All-Ireland Pollinator Plan is
                                                        one of the best sources of
                                                        information on how to make our
                                                        community spaces better for
                                                        pollinators and wildlife in general.
                                                        Check out the resources section of
                                                        their website here:
                                                        https://pollinators.ie/resources/

                                                                                                                 21
Habitat Management Guidelines
Wildflower Meadows:
Before creating any new meadows, it is important to consider and plan for the maintenance requirements.
If the proper planning is not done at the outset it may cause considerable hassle down the line. This is
particularly important for the end of season cut of a hay meadow as the grass could be knee height.
Remember meadows are managed landscapes! You will need to consider the following:

•       Who is going to cut the meadow?
          o Is it volunteers, the local authority or a contractor?
          o Or for larger meadows can it be conservation grazed?
•       How are they going to cut it?
          o Have they got the right equipment suitable for the site?
•       How are you going to gather and remove the cuttings from the site?
•       What are you going to do with the cuttings after they have been removed from the site?
There are a few different types of wildflower meadows that you may consider depending on your site and
preferences. Each requires different management. We have listed two such types of meadows here:

    Hay Meadows:                                                     Short Cut Meadows:
    •    Cut 1-2 times per year, once at the beginning of the        •   Cut approximately every 6 weeks from mid-April
         season to remove any winter growth and a final cut in           through to autumn
         mid-August to September (if there are late flowering        •   Mow the fringes along paths, car parks and roadsides
         species then you may consider delaying the cut)             •   Mow paths through larger meadows to encourage
    •    Mow the fringes along paths, car parks and roadsides            people to use them
    •    Mow paths through larger meadows to encourage               •   Put up simple signs to let people know what you are
         people to use them                                              doing
    •    Put up signs to let people know what you are doing          •   Increase species diversity as needed by harvesting local
                                                                         seed and either over-seeding it on the grass after it has
    •    Increase species diversity as needed by harvesting local
                                                                         been cut or by growing the seed on as plug plants for
         seed and either over-seeding it on the grass after it has
                                                                         planting out the following spring.
         been cut or by growing the seed on as plug plants for
         planting out the following spring.
    •    Control listed noxious weeds.

For more information visit the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan website and resources page:

https://pollinators.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/How-to-guide-Wildflower-Meadows-2018-WEB.pdf
                                                                                                                                     22
Designing and Planning for New Tree Planting in Community Spaces:
For the creation of new areas of community woodlands, copses, avenues or individual trees on community
spaces the most important thing to remember is ‘Right Tree Right Place’. Remember that for all larger
woodland creation projects and works on existing woodlands, you should always seek expert advice before
proceeding.
The following are some of the practical considerations that should help guide you in the design and planning
for smaller tree planting projects:

 Local Site                Soil - is it very wet or free draining?
 Considerations
                           Is the site designated (as natural, built or archaeological) or adjoining a designated site or site
                           of particular biodiversity interest? If so, check with relevant organisation for approval.

                           For larger planting schemes, do you need to prepare the site for planting?

                           Do you need to protect against rabbits / hares / deer?

                           Check for overhead powerlines or underground services.

 Practical Design          Consider safety and sightlines - set back from primary paths in public spaces or at road
 Considerations            junctions
                           Consider whether anti-social behaviour is a problem in the area and manage for it in
                           advance
                           Where possible, include other community amenities as part of larger planting schemes -
                           paths, outdoor classrooms, natural play, picnic tables, etc.
                           Consider neighbouring houses before planting.

                           Where possible, plant small groups of trees in public spaces instead of lots of individual
                           trees. This will be easier to maintain.
                           When planting trees at larger sizes you'll need to stake and tie them. Remember to
                           adjust tree ties each year and remove after 2-3 years.
 Community &               Consult with local community to gain support for the works. Be innovative with how you
 Stakeholder               engage local families and children in the development of the woodland e.g. dedicate a
                           tree to each family resident next to the project, carry out volunteer tree planting events,
 Consultation              develop ancillary amenities such as benches and natural play, etc.

                           Communicate the plans with the person or organisation responsible for maintaining the
                           green spaces (i.e. local authority, contractor or local volunteer) to avoid accidental
                           damage to the trees.

                           Agree a plan for managing around the base of individual trees to avoid damage from
                           lawnmowers and strimmers.

For more practical information, check out the Trees on the Land website: https://www.treesontheland.com/planting-guide

                                                                                                                             23
You can also read